When the weather outside is perfect, the very last thing you want to do is spend the day cooped up inside, which is why we here at Only in Colorado are always looking for new and exciting ways to get out and enjoy this beautiful state! In the case of today, we are gushing about this scenic drive that we happen to think is the most underrated adventure in Colorado:
Welcome to the Frontier Pathways Scenic & Historic Byway, a 103-mile journey that will take you through some of southern Colorado's greatest historical treasures.
Shaped like a horseshoe, Frontier Pathways spans Highways 96 and 165 and also includes a 16-mile backtrack that will take you to the old mining towns of Westcliffe and Silver Cliff.
While exploring the byway, travelers will also pass through several other Colorado communities that you may (or may not) have heard of, including Rye, Wetmore, and Colorado City.
In addition to the towns, the landscape along the Frontier Pathways Scenic & Historic Byway makes the trip even more unforgettable, as the road winds through the San Isabel National Forest and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
While the drive can easily be completed in a few hours, we recommend setting aside a day or more to get out and explore, as there is plenty to see and do in both the towns and around the San Isabel National Forest.
Do you need a break from it all? Trust me; I know the feeling... but luckily for us, there are plenty of hidden gems in Colorado that are perfect for a quick escape! And they're not just hiding in our national parks either. From beautiful local parks, waterfalls, and overlooks to the depths of our ancient canyons, these 12 hidden places in Colorado are the perfect spots to go and clear my mind.
When you hike the quiet trails of Forsythe Canyon, you never know just what you're going to find; a scenic waterfall, a herd of deer, a patch of gorgeous columbines... you can see it all on this designated two miles of trail. Do note that this is bear country!
2. Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, Eads
There is something hauntingly beautiful about this historic Colorado spot. Maybe it's the eerie silence? Or the warm breeze of the Plains? Whatever it may be, the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is one that deserves to be discovered.
Several of you recommended visiting Zapata Falls; a secluded and gorgeous hike along the San Luis Valley. The best part of the journey? The towering 25-foot waterfall. But while we love a gorgeous final destination, the hike itself is pretty epic too.
Explorer, beware: The views from the Devils Causeway may be unlike anything you've ever seen, but the hike across the narrow ridge can be dangerous, so tread with caution.
Buried beneath Glenwood Springs are the fascinating Fairy Caves, which consist of more than 10 rooms with various stalactites, stalagmites, sights and sounds.
Located in the Pawnee National Grassland of northeastern Colorado lie the Pawnee Buttes; a pair of hills created by the original High Plains surface wearing away. (They shouldn't be too hard to find!)
One of the last things you'd expect to find on the Eastern Plains of Colorado are colorful formations of sandstone. Just east of Colorado Springs, however, you will find just that, along with a scenic hike full of varying ecosystems at the Paint Mines Interpretive Park.
Pick a trail; any trail! You're guaranteed to find a place to inspire and relax you within these 76,711 acres of stunning purple mountain majesties. The Indian Peaks Wilderness is iconic Colorado, and we can't get enough of the hidden gems within its recesses!
There is something peaceful about this abandoned mining town. Maybe it's the utter quietness? Or the way it gets you thinking and wondering about those who once lived here? No matter the case, St. Elmo is truly a state gem.
Every Colorado native has seen or visited this iconic range. But what we love about the Maroon Bells is that there's always somewhere new to discover here - a new trail, a new wildflower, a new alpine lake. Seriously, what are you waiting for??
While you might encounter a few people at these beautiful spots (this is Colorado, after all!), the relaxation is unreal. How many of these Colorado hidden gems have you visited?
If you've already checked these off your bucket list, next tackle our favorite must-do hikes or dive into even more of our favorite hidden places in Colorado. Just be sure to take some time to unwind and recover in luxury after all that adventuring...you'll need it!
There's no better winter destination in Colorado, nor in the United States, than Summit County! This central Colorado county is a true winter playground. It's beautiful and there are so many things to do. Read on to learn more and start planning a visit to Summit County today. There's nothing like Summit County, Colorado in the winter.
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Summit County is pretty much right in the middle of Colorado. It has a population of about 31,000 people.
On your way up to Summit County on I-70, you'll get to see incredible views like this one. Many of those snow-covered peaks are in Summit County!
Breckenridge is the county seat of this county and is the most populous town - even though it only has about 5,000 residents. It's historical and charming and you'll love exploring it on a winter's afternoon.
Of course, many people come to Summit County in the winter to ski or snowboard at one or more of the ski resorts here. Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain are all in Summit County.
Summit County is a winter wonderland and you're going to love visiting it during the cold months of the year. You'll never run out of things to do and you'll love the absolute beauty of this part of the state.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Summit County this winter? Check out VRBO.com for great deals on vacation rentals!
